Alumni Testimonials

At Howard Fine Acting Studio Australia, our graduates go on to book roles across film, television, and theatre both locally and internationally. Our training is grounded in a practical, process-driven approach that develops truth, depth, and confidence in every performance. From emerging artists to award-winning professionals, alumni consistently credit their time at HFAS with giving them the tools to thrive in the industry.

Full Time Alumni Testimonials

  • Harrison Cramond

    Full Time Program

    “My time at HF studio has been transformational. Not only do you learn about the craft, most importantly you learn about yourself.

    This is the studio for you if you want to join a community of life long friendships and support throughout the industry.

    On the business side of acting, the Full Time Course at HF gave me the tools and insights to successfully sign with a top agent within the first three months of graduating. I now know how the industry works and the right way proceed with all scenarios you will encounter in this career.”

  • Aria Krelle

    Full Time Program

    “Where do I even begin! To have stumbled across this place has been such a gift and a blessing. I couldn't recommend the Full Time Program enough, it is a perfect blend of all the disciplines an actor should be taught and covers a multitude of areas. The faculty is amazing and so supportive, and they provide you with so many tools which enhances your craft insanely! Not only has my acting improved from Howard Fine Acting School but I've also grown so much as a person and made lifelong friends.

    If you're on the fence about whether to apply, I encourage you to look no further and to take the leap as I believe it is the best kind of training an actor can receive.”

  • Daisy Shah

    Full Time Program

    “Howard Fine Acting School is more than just a school. It has made a significant difference in my life. I learned a lot about myself as a person, as well as the fact that acting is more than just lines. It is all about you. You interact with yourself in various character scenarios. You discover a new self.

    Teachers are among the industry's the best performers. I was terrified and concerned on the first day of class. English was my second language, and I lacked confidence in myself. But I never felt alone in the classroom. Everyone was incredibly helpful. I would definitely recommend Howard Fine Acting Studio for acting classes. The Best Acting School in the world.”

  • Lyndon Cantwell

    Full Time Program

    “Finished the 2023 Full-Time course, and wow. What a fantastic group of people and such lovely teachers!

    The technique taught is wonderful and I would definitely recommend reading Howard Fine’s book if you are thinking about going to the studio (or even if you’re not). As well as teaching you a great acting foundation, the course also familiarises you with audition technique and gives you good understanding of the industry.

    Did I mention the faculty are the nicest people??”

  • Sacha Brown

    Full Time Program

    “Before applying to the Full Time program at the Howard Fine Acting Studio I had almost given up on the idea of attending an acting school. I planned to find my way on my own, having auditioned for so many different schools, and a having had a lack lustre experience at a different school I attended previously.

    I applied to the Howard Fine Studio on a very last minute whim and it is the best decision I have ever made. Not only is the audition experience wonderful, the course itself exceeds expectation and is invaluable. Since graduating, I have gotten headshots done and taken time to rest as you really do work hard throughout the year.

    However, I feel immensely prepared and absolutely confident in how to get started in the industry and am working full steam ahead toward getting an agent and building my experience and skills further as an actor. The full time course is a launch pad into standing on your own two feet with the warmth of a community by your side.“

  • Jazi Hall

    Full Time Program

    “I have done quite a few different acting courses from many different teachers and schools, and I can safely say that what I learnt from Howard Fine’s Full Time Program was different to what I had learnt in any other course. After only the first term, my acting had improved exponentially. The Full Time course provides you with a new method to approach and connect with character, by channeling aspects yourself. I would definitely recommend training at Howard Fine to any actors. No matter how much prior training you have, HFAS will be incredibly useful in building your understanding of yourself, and your skill set as an actor. 

    Now I am about to start studying acting at VCA for three years, and am consistently receiving auditions for TVCs, plays, film and TV. All while applying what I have learnt from HFAS.”

  • Nishanti Selvaraj

    Full Time Program

    “As someone who was completely new to acting, this course has taught me so much not just about the craft of acting but the realities of the industry and how to navigate it safely and confidently. I learned the importance of portraying a character with truth, to discover the "why" behind our actions and ultimately to live more intentionally. All within a safe and supportive learning environment. I highly recommend it. “

  • Abbie Moore-Ward

    Full Time Program

    “I was very lucky to be a part of the 2023 Full-Time Ensemble at the Howard Fine Acting Studio Australia. It has been an experience that I will take with me for the rest of my life. I have met so many wonderful people, and have had the opportunity to be taught by incredible mentors. The HFAS community is so welcoming and encouraging. I feel that I have learnt so much, and grown so much as a human being through the HFAS training. Thank you!”

  • Cameron Allen

    Full Time Program

    “No school of institution has made my thoughts, ideas and questions feel as heard as HFAS has. When I first attended the open day, everything made so much sense, it felt like someone putting things I’ve always thought into words. They would say things that make you go “of course! Why didn’t I think of that?”

    That single open day is what convinced me to audition. 

    Some places can make you feel overlooked or not really seen when you need it. Here, walking through the front door, seeing your classmates’ and getting to work on material - you will never feel unwanted. Your presence matters, and your craft matters and what you bring to class AND your everyday life matters. 

    Your lived experience, and voice, matter here.“

  • Angel Lamesa

    Full Time Program

    “My time spent at the studio learning and creating forever lasting memories and friendships was the most rewarding experience. One lesson I will always remember from this course is that “every time you grow as an actor you also grow as a human.” Which I never thought of until this year, and I feel is absolutely true.  

    All the faculty are absolutely lovely people who are all insanely talented. Entirely grateful to have got to meet and learn so much from them. Not only the Australian faculty but also the American faculty as well. 

    Howard himself has this aura that makes you feel safe while working on any scenes with him. He also gives such valuable feedback as well. Not only in person or virtually but also in his new book as well Fine on Acting: A Vision of the Craft - Revised Edition.” 

  • Zoe Smith

    Full Time Program

    “Studying with Howard Fine provided rare insight for me that is hard to come by in this industry. Not only is the teaching provided unique, thoughtful and helped me truly to develop my craft, but the knowledge gifted about the business side of acting guides you seamlessly into the day to day realities of being an actor once graduating.

    There is always someone to support you and help you at every stage of your acting career almost like a family and that kind of provide is invaluable. Recently I was part of a show for Melbourne Fringe Festival, featured in an article on Casting Networks and have an independent theatre gig coming up in a few months.”

  • Jaz Balmer

    Full Time Program

    “I recommend HFAS to every actor I know. The training has not only made me grow as an actor but also as a human being. Because of the studio, I am self-sufficient and feel confident in my ability to take on anything both as an actor and as a director. Beyond that, HFAS is my family, whenever I am in the studio it feels like home and for that, I am forever grateful.”

  • Michelle Cooper

    Full Time Program

    “When I started to look for full-time actor training in Melbourne, there were many institution names thrown around. But when I started looking specifically for actor training that was kind, compassionate and effective... when I wanted actor training that didn't desire to break students, but embrace them and help them grow, suddenly there was only one name that I was hearing: "oh, you want The Howard Fine Studio Australia".

    The full-time course lived up to the reputation. It was not "easy". The expectations of the students are significant. But it is a course and Studio filled with a love of actors and acting. The faculty sets the bar high, but they will actively work to help you meet it. If you are passionate about your craft, the HFAS team will help you hone it. If you want a training institution where you will find a sense of community, then the HFAS alumni community will welcome you with open arms. If you want to work as an actor, then this course will help you do that. 

    Professionally, and personally, I cannot speak more highly of the quality of the training, and the ongoing support, I have received. I will be forever grateful.”

  • Sarah Alexander

    Full Time Program

    “I have just graduated from The 2023 One-Year Full Time Course.

    When I say I think this is the best acting school in the world, I seriously mean it. I feel so incredibly confident in myself going into the industry because of the teachers at this studio. Every single one of them had a huge impact on me, everyone had a smiling face greeting you in the morning, and you are surrounded by people that are just as passionate and love the craft as much as you. I have told 3 of my acting friends outside of the studio that I'll pay them to train here, It is seriously life changing, and the lessons you learn go so far beyond acting, you walk out a better human as well. I REALLY REALLY REALLY recommend the Full Time course, It is worth every cent, and seriously once you've finished the money seems like absolutely nothing compared to the invaluable knowledge and wisdom you gain. I'd happily pay more if I knew I would feel this confident afterwards. Every teacher is kind, helpful and loving and wants to invest their time into your craft. It is the safest environment and I felt 100% comfortable to be myself the entire time. Even going to one class and seeing them teach scene study, you'll see what I'm talking about I promise.

    Please do the Full Time Course, you won't regret it. The year went so fast it felt like a week. One of my goals at the start of 2023 was to feel as though I could pick up any script and emotionally connect to it, and I honestly feel that way after learning from:
    Howard Fine, David Coury, Marilyn McIntyre, Philip Hayden, Sarah Hallam, Sass Pinci, Jess Martin, Karen Anderson, Paul Rochford, Phil Sumner, Elizabeth Brennan, Sally McLean, Abbe Holmes, Lliam Amor, Eve Morey, Gemma Louise Murphy.

    And after the course, it isn't really over, they are still completely welcoming and willing to give you their time to help you in this industry!!

    I reached out to and was convinced by a Full Time student, the year before me; Adeline Close to come here before I joined, so please feel free to contact me through www.sarahalexander.co and I would happily email you about it!”

  • Christine Pearsall

    Full Time Program

    “Honestly couldn't recommend this course enough. I loved it!
    You get to meet and work with so many amazing people, learn so much about the arts industry and who you are as a person as well.

    I wouldn't even recognise myself from where I was when I began the course. I now feel comfortable knowing what to expect and work on for auditions, and what's expected of me within the industry and on set.

    A couple of honourable mentions include, but are in no way limited to, Sass Pinci, Phil Hayden, Jess Martin and Sarah Hallam. All of these tutors including ones not mentioned (we'd be here all day if so haha) are some of the most hard working professionals I know. They created such an inclusive and safe environment and are just all round fantastic human beings.

    So why not at least check it out? They have free sample classes to attend if you want a taste x”

  • Maria England

    Full Time Program

    “Thank you so much to everyone at the studio who taught me so much during the full time course.

    I grew so much from training here, gaining confidence, understanding and skills I’ve taken into the industry.

    I would recommend the studio to anyone who’s serious about their craft and open to exploring their vulnerability and their strength in a safe and supportive environment.”

Part Time Alumni Testimonials

  • Violeta Brau Mugica

    Part Time Program

    “A MUST do for any actor in Melbourne. I did the part time course in 2022 and I would go as far as saying that it was life-changing career wise. Phil, Sass, Serah and the other teachers throughout the course were exactly what teachers/acting coaches should be... high quality, clearly passionate about what they teach and have unparalleled care-factor for their students. I cannot thank this studio and team enough for helping me find my love for acting again.”

  • Max Paterson

    Part Time Program

    “I couldn't recommend HFAS more highly to any aspiring, emerging, or working actors. Howard, Phil and the team are absolutely lovely people. The training is clear, practical and thoroughly helpful. Train here!”

  • Adele Shelley

    Part Time Program

    “I've just completed the six month part time course and found it to be one of the most rewarding learning experiences of my life. All of the teachers are incredibly passionate and invested in helping actors grow as professionals and human beings. The staff all teach in their own unique ways, but they all impart great knowledge with wisdom, generosity and insight. I can't recommend Howard Fine Acting Studio highly enough.”

  • Rosaleen Cox

    Part Time Program

    “Incredible experience and fantastic training in such a supportive and welcoming environment. Can't recommend the Melbourne Howard Fine Institute enough! This studio is the bee's knees and the cat's pyjamas, and Phil is one helleva director who is dedicated, helpful, wise and a real talent and pleasure to work with.”

  • Jack Brophy

    Part Time Program

    “If you want some of the best acting training in the world. This is the place. The whole cohort of teachers is amazing and the love and care they give to each actor on their journey is incredible.”

  • Declan Woods

    Part Time Program

    “Absolutely Brilliant!!!
    The philosophy behind the teaching is fantastic and the staff were beyond supportive, honest, genuine and caring.
    Howard fine provides a safe, unique and encouraging environment.
    I recommend them to any and all that wish to progress/develop their craft and can’t thank the Staff enough.
    They are Top Notch 🌞🌞🌞”

  • Stelios Ioannides

    Part Time Program

    “The Howard Fine Studio enabled me to utilise the best parts of myself to become a more grounded, open, and adaptable Actor.

    Since graduating from the Part-Time ensemble in 2022, I secured representation and have been working in various projects on-screen and off; including the Melbourne Fringe Festival in 2023. I’m currently in the midst of now filming my first feature, still implementing techniques i originally developed with the studio.

    The HF Acting Studio allowed me the space to safely break through mental and emotional barricades.I would highly recommend studying at the Howard Fine Studio in any capacity.”

  • Callum O'Mara

    Part Time Program

    “After completing the part time course, I feel more confident, passionate and independent. The course is structured to the tee and offers necessary tools to help you grow as an actor. Its challenging, supportive and fun. If you want to get serious about the craft, I highly suggest diving into one of the courses they offer. The teachers there are just exquisite.”

  • Paul Allica

    Part Time Program

    “I completed the 6 month ensemble here. Honestly the best acting experience I've had. An exceptional cohort of students and staff. I put off training here for a long time because I was struggling to justify investing - but it was worth it. They give you concrete methods to work in this industry - not esoteric hard to understand concepts. Closely integrated with the LA faculty. They do expect you to work hard, but if you go all in you'll have an amazing experience. The teachers also give feedback in a really friendly and confidence building way. Seriously good school.”

  • Mitchell Wadsworth

    Part Time Program

    “A magical experience awaits any who attend Howard Fine Acting Studio, as long as you're willing to put in the work. The skills I gained here were as crucial to a career in acting, as they were to living a fulfilled life. Can't recommend it enough.”

  • Mikhaela Musat

    Part Time Program

    “Amazing, supportive team. highly recommend the PT course and all the teaching faculty are wonderful. It is so lovely to be apart of a supportive community in the industry.”

  • Claire Frost

    Part Time Program

    “Howard Fine is not just an acting school it is a community where you can thrive in your craft. The training builds you to be a self sufficient actor that is so important to build a sustainable, professional career. I considered myself a HF ‘stalker’ for a while because I audited the masterclasses but did not participate. Now that I’m in the part time course, I’m still a stalker… but at least I’m participating now :)”

  • Zac Taylor

    Part Time Program

    “My journey at The Howard Fine Acting Studio in Melbourne was nothing short of amazing. Coming from a background in music & live performance, I discovered a gap in my skills for screen and theatre. The studio's teaching of the Uta Hagen technique was a revelation, resonating with me on so many levels and instilled the confidence I needed to fully express myself. The exceptional guidance from both local and L.A.-based teachers was instrumental in my growth.

    Since graduating from the Part Time course in October, I've secured a lead role in a national TVC through a connection made at the studio and recently signed with an agency. The immersive experience at Howard Fine not only reignited my passion for acting but also equipped me with the tools to bring characters to life authentically. Grateful for this unique and enriching chapter that has fundamentally shaped my journey in the world of acting. If you're thinking about enrolling…..do it!”

  • Nina-Rose Hubbard

    Part Time Program

    “I studied here as part of the six month part-time ensemble. I'm not sure I'm properly able to convey how an incredible, and life changing the experience was. The teachers are fantastic, the technique is simple yet effective, and the groundwork laid at the beginning of the course to build trust and commitment within the ensemble made the entire experience an utter joy. I joined the course having not acted for 6 years, incredibly nervous to get back involved, I left with an enthusiasm for risk taking, performing and a lifelong commitment to make this my career. I honestly can't recommend it enough.”

  • Joel Beling

    Part Time Program

    “My experience with the Howard Fine Acting Studio was a labour of love, a steep learning curve and a challenging concatenation of lessons and exercises in acting skill development. As a graduate of the part-time program, the expert and caring teaching staff allowed me to juggle a full-time work schedule while equipping me with the skills to prepare me for a professional career as an actor. I'll definitely return for more scene study classes to stay acting-fit. 

    Since graduating I have acted in community theatre in Between Life and Death at the Essendon Theatre Company and in Footloose with DIY Collective, as well as acting in a corporate training video.”

  • Rebekah Lin

    Part Time Program

    “Best Acting School I've ever been to.

    If you go, you will find yourself undergoing world class training with incredible tutors/teachers that are active in the industry; you will find a lifelong acting family who will support you on your journey and theirs in tandem; you will deepen your understanding of the entertainment industry and how to navigate it professionally; you will be surrounded by empathy and compassion in a safe and nurturing environment.

    And most importantly, you will be challenged and grow immensely as a human being and performer as you learn more about yourself.

    So just do it :)”

  • Bek Chapman

    Part Time Program

    “During the 6 month Part-Time Course, I used a self-tape technique that was taught and booked a TVC (that is still running!) After the course, I booked my first professional musical. I am constantly going over my notes and Howard's book when I'm auditioning and working.

    My time at HFAS was invaluable. I cannot stress enough how much Howard Fine Studios helped me in my professional (and personal!) journey. Philip Hayden's teaching in particular, along with Sass Pinci's voice techniques, (the vocal weekend is A MUST), with Sarah Hallam's classes, Jess Martin's classes, Howard Fine's early morning wake-up straight-to-the-point lectures, Lliam Amor's hysterical improv classes, and Marilyn McIntyre! ("I'm going to use you as a teaching moment!") and then crying when she'd talk about how much she loved actors!

    Honestly, I cannot begin to say how grateful I am and much I have benefited - and this is just from the 6 months part-time course! Imagine the benefit from the Full Time! In my course there were writers and film-makers, social workers, dancers, students and actors and we all benefited in so many ways (and are still in contact) I have been telling all my singer/dancer/film-maker/actor friends to go to Howard Fine Studios because you will just be so inspired and motivated.

    I am performing professionally now because of HFAS. And I also wouldn't hesitate going back there for an actor 'tune up' at any time. I am forever grateful to Phil and everyone at Howard Fine Studios for who you have helped me become! Thank you! xx“

10 Week Essential Acting Program Alumni Testimonials

  • James Bourke

    10 Week Essential Acting Program

    “A terrific program! One all actors- experienced or not can learn from.

    The Howard fine studio teaches acting technique that is tangible and relatable!

    I urge anyone considering it to try it out.“

  • Suny J’Daka

    10 Week Essential Acting Program

    “Awesome teachers, cool facilities, convenient location, loads of learning.

    Just finished a course and it’s easily one of the best things that I’ve ever done. The course was so well designed that every time I was unsure about something during practice, I found answers in the next lesson. It was a magical experience.”

  • Charah Avrael

    10 Week Essential Acting Program

    “Want to be an actor? Go to Howard Fine Studios Australia.
    It's been a couple of years since my time at HFAS and every time I recall my time there, three words come to mind - IT'S THE BEST. The structure of the classs and their methodology has become my firm foundation as an actor in my approach to every role I go for. Phil and the HFAS team are just amazing.”

  • Ross Larkin

    10 Week Essential Acting Program

    “Phil and the team are some of the best teachers I've ever worked with. I was feeling quite lost and doubting my abilities and choices prior to starting the 10-week intensive, and it was just what I needed to put me back on track. It has inspired me and renewed my confidence out of sight. The voice masterclass with Sass was incredible! HIGHLY recommended to all.”

  • Chris Papadopoulos

    10 Week Essential Acting Program

    “I discovered Howard Fine Acting Studio in 2021, i had done a few other programs beforehand and i thought i knew what acting was… boy was i wrong. I love the way of learning and teaching at HF, the faculty challenges you and guides you to discover yourself and your mind but don’t push you into mental anguish. I found my home away from home and my clique at the studio. The faculty aren’t your teachers, they’re your colleagues. I recommend HF to anyone i come across, they have free open classes. Any actor who wants to be the best they can, go to Howard Fine Acting Studio.”

Masterclass & Other Programs

  • Alicia Banit

    Masterclass Participant

    “I’ll start off by saying that Howard Fine’s book was the only acting book I’d read that I’d really connected with. And he didn’t have contradictions in it, it made complete sense to me, so I gave his classes a shot and I am so lucky that I did.

    Howard Fine changed my life.

    I’ve done numerous Masterclasses with him in the Melbourne Studio and I did his 12 Week Foundation Course in LA. I went there in a time of my life where I had zero self confidence. And what I didn’t realise at the time is that I’d lost my love of acting.

    One of the biggest lessons for me, that I learnt was that failing was the furthest thing from a bad thing. Fear of failure was debilitating for me. But I was taught that failing is where you learn and in his classes is the safest place to do that.

    I learnt to completely love the process of finding a character within myself. Whether that be, the “good guy”, or the “bad guy”. And I started to love auditioning again. And going into that room was electrifying and I started to get the jobs.

    On top of everything I learned professionally. Howard’s classes and lessons taught me to respect and trust myself in all aspects of my life. Howard Fine and the Studio changed me for the better. And I couldn’t recommend them highly enough. But please, don’t take my word for it, go and experience it for yourself.

    Go and, this might sound cheesy, but discover the best actor you can be. Because he and the Studio will do that for you and you won’t regret it.“

    Video Testimonials →

  • Liz Haavisto

    Online Program

    “Absolutely amazing! I'm so grateful for Phil & the team at HFAS for offering Fine Online classes. The experience was like no other and after completing an online program, I know the insight and skills I've learned will last a lifetime. The personalised training is something that so easily resonated with me, it was so inspiring and I loved seeing other class members grow throughout the program too. I wasn't planning on attending further training but after seeing HFAS is offering a follow-on program, the opportunity is too good to miss!

    I highly recommend that their online classes would be suitable and beneficial to anyone and I'm looking forward to training with these guys again! Thank you HFAS!”

  • Dave Capstick

    Online Program

    “I have recently completed the 6 week, online acting course.

    This, for me was a game changer!

    Howard Fine is a Master, and the whole team succeed in making the process easy to understand.

    There are no "easy tools, or quick fixes" but the way everything is explained is straight forward.

    The positive and extremely constructive feedback, each class, only helps to embed the lessons.

    I am now working with HAFS on the Audition Technique, and loving it.

    If you want to get to the next level in your acting career, just sign up and enjoy!”

  • Katrina Lai

    Online Program

    “Simply awesome! Phil was a professional and supportive teacher and I'm blown away by how much knowledge I've soaked in from the classes. The online courses were such a great way to hone your craft and technique which are applicable to not just acting but in every day life!! I'd highly recommend Howard Fine for any budding & experienced actors or to anyone who is up for a creative challenge!”

  • Isabelle Cornish

    Masterclass Participant

    “Fabulous Masterclass. The organisation and thought the Studio has put in makes it so enjoyable. Makes a huge difference!!”